Breakers Earn First Win of Season with 2–0 Shutout of Vinalhaven

The Pine Tree Academy girls varsity soccer team earned its first victory of the season Friday afternoon, using a strong second-half attack and another shutout performance from its defense to defeat Vinalhaven School 2–0 at Pine Tree Academy.

The match kicked off at an earlier-than-usual 1:00 p.m. start time to accommodate the Vikings’ ferry travel schedule.

The Breakers started somewhat slowly in the opening half but came out of halftime with much more urgency in the attack. Head Coach Natalie Marden called it Pine Tree Academy’s strongest offensive performance of the season so far.

PTA generated 21 shots during the match, with Chantal Mbonimpa, Acadia Brace, Lisette Hakizimana, and Alana Cardoza leading a Breakers attack that consistently created opportunities.

Hakizimana provided the finishing touch, scoring both Pine Tree Academy goals in the second half to give the Breakers the advantage. Mbonimpa, Brace, and Cardoza also generated several quality scoring opportunities as PTA increased the pressure after halftime.

At the other end of the field, the Breakers turned in another strong defensive performance. The defense communicated and shifted well throughout the match while also becoming involved in the attack. Maddie Jones and Emma O’Brien were particularly effective at connecting the defense with the offense and moving forward to support PTA’s attacking efforts.

Goalkeeper Daphne Poirier completed the shutout with 12 saves, stopping every Vinalhaven shot on goal. Poirier also played aggressively off her line, coming out of the goal when needed to help shut down Vikings opportunities.

With a two-goal advantage, Pine Tree Academy was able to give additional playing time to players off the bench. Tiara Son stood out with her increased minutes and was specifically praised for her performance.

The match was also played with good attitudes throughout, with neither team receiving a card.

After a slower opening half, the Breakers found another gear after halftime. Hakizimana’s two goals combined with Poirier’s 12-save shutout and a strong team defensive effort to give Pine Tree Academy a 2–0 victory and its first win of the season.